A nine-year-old girl tragically passed away from a single stab wound to her chest in her residence, as revealed during an initial inquest hearing. Aria Thorpe was declared deceased by paramedics at her home in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, at 6:58 pm on December 15. Confirming the cause of death, coroner’s officer Andrew Eastwood stated that she succumbed to the stab wound to her chest.
Dr. Peter Harrowing, the area coroner for Avon, mandated the full post-mortem report to be submitted by February 16. He identified Aria’s family and the accused individual as involved parties in the case. Dr. Harrowing decided not to schedule an inquest due to ongoing proceedings but set a review date for April 10, emphasizing that it would not be a formal court hearing and further proceedings would be contingent on police investigations or legal actions.
A 15-year-old boy, whose identity remains protected due to his age, had previously appeared in Bristol Crown Court on charges of Aria’s murder. Judge Peter Blair KC, the Recorder of Bristol, has tentatively set a trial date for June 15 this year, expected to span two weeks. Avon and Somerset Police responded to the incident in the Mead Vale area of Weston-super-Mare following a call from paramedics at 6:09 pm on December 15.
Following Aria’s untimely death, her father, Tom Thorpe, expressed heartfelt tributes, reminiscing about her vibrant and loving nature. Aria’s extended family on her mother’s side also shared their profound sorrow, describing her as a radiant, cheerful soul who brought immense joy to their lives. They acknowledged the outpouring of support from friends and the local community during this challenging period.